Three young women from Norway have formed the black metal band Witch Club Satan, igniting a movement within a traditionally male-dominated music genre. Despite their initial lack of musical experience, Nikoline, Victoria, and Johanna have quickly risen to prominence, performing at major international festivals. Their journey is the subject of the feature documentary Hex, directed by Maja Holand, which premiered at the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival on March 15, 2024, and will next screen at CPH:DOX in Copenhagen.
The film captures the challenges the band faces in Norway’s black metal scene, which has been characterized by its macabre themes and male artists. Holand highlights the criticism and opposition that the trio encounters as they embrace their identity as female musicians and feminists. By calling themselves witches, they aim to harness a sense of empowerment, breaking societal norms and expressing their raw, often-unseen strengths.
Holand, who initially approached the project as a cinematographer, found inspiration in the band’s vision. “As a new mother of three, I felt I might have to give up being a filmmaker. Then the band appeared, and I was immediately captivated by their project,” she shared in an interview. The documentary not only chronicles the band’s rise but also their personal journeys of self-discovery and transformation.
Exploring Themes of Feminism and Power
The film dives into significant themes, particularly the concept of breaking away from rigid societal expectations. Holand noted that the historical context of witch trials has fascinated her, prompting extensive research. “I had mostly related to the word ‘witch’ as an insult, but I came to view it as an honorary title,” she explained. Through this lens, the documentary seeks to redefine what it means to be a witch in today’s society.
To visually represent the resistance faced by Witch Club Satan, Holand creatively staged a modern witch trial in the film. “What if I staged a modern witch trial where Witch Club Satan were on trial?” she recalled, describing the creative breakthrough that allowed her to present the band’s challenges in a compelling way. This innovative approach sheds light on both historical and contemporary judgments faced by women expressing their power.
The film also raises critical questions about feminism in the music industry, particularly within the heavy metal genre. Holand acknowledges that Witch Club Satan sees themselves as a feminist project, aiming to carve out space for female voices in a predominantly male arena. “I do call myself a feminist filmmaker,” she stated, recognizing the parallels between her career and the challenges faced by the band.
A Journey of Empowerment and Expression
Holand emphasizes the importance of character journeys in documentaries, intertwining the band’s collective narrative with individual stories that highlight their personal growth. As they learn to play instruments and gain confidence, the film portrays their struggle for acceptance and self-identity in an often-hostile environment.
Looking ahead, Holand hopes to share Hex with audiences beyond the festival circuit. “We want the film to travel and be seen by those interested in diving into the world of Witch Club Satan,” she expressed. As the documentary continues to gain attention, Holand is also considering a return to shorter formats, such as music videos and collaborations as a cinematographer, while reflecting on the emotional toll of directing.
The story of Witch Club Satan and their fight against societal norms serves not only as a compelling narrative but as a broader commentary on the struggles of women in the arts. In a world where the concept of a witch has historically been tied to negativity, Holand’s film aims to transform that narrative, celebrating the power of women who dare to embrace their identities and challenge conventions.
